How Do You Know If Your Child Has ADHD?

How Do You Know If Your Child Has ADHD?

How Do You Know If Your Child Has ADHD?2018-03-062018-03-06https://insightpsychology.ca/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/islogo_horizontal_fullcolour_rgb.pngInsight Psychologyhttps://insightpsychology.ca/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/shutterstock_145282951.jpg200px200px

Who doesn’t know a child who can’t be still, not listen when he/she should be, not wait for his turn, be very disorganized and messy, or easily forgets things. It is difficult sometimes to distinguish between what is normal ‘kid behaviour’ or what can be a very disabling disorder like Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).

ADHD has become one of the most widely researched and diagnosed child developmental disorders over recent years. So, what is ADHD and what does it really look like? According to the Learning Disability Association of Ontario, “ADHD is a common neurobiological disorder that can be noticed in the preschool or early grade of school. ADHD affects between 5-12% of the population or about 1 or 2 students in every classroom”. ADHD encompasses two groups or clusters of symptoms. For example, there can be mostly “inattentive” symptoms/behaviours, and there can be mostly “hyperactivity/impulsivity” behaviours. An individual can have mostly behaviours from one group or both. However, what is most significant when considering a diagnosis of ADHD is that many of these behaviours have been occurring for a long time (usually before the age of 12), and have been interfering for the individual in several settings. There can be difficulties with focus, distractibility, listening, and getting work started and finished. There can also be quick emotional meltdowns, anger outbursts, aggression, impulsivity, and frustration.

If you think your child may have ADHD, consultation with your family doctor/pediatrician. You can also call Insight Psychology on Norfolk and enquire about a consultation and/or psychological assessment.

Linda Di Nardo is a Registered Psychological Associate. She received her Master’s degree in Applied Psychology from the University of Toronto (O.I.S.E.), and registered for autonomous practice with the College of Psychologists of Ontario in 2006.

Important Update Regarding Re-Opening to Provide In-Person Services

In light of the most recent provincial announcement made on May 14, 2020, allowing in-person counselling services to resume, Insight Psychology on Norfolk will slowly and carefully begin to resume some in-person services where appropriate. We continue to put your safety as well as the safety of our clinicians as our first priority as we move towards bringing back our full range of services. We ask for your patience as we adjust to meet provincial health guidelines. For more information, please contact your clinician directly or our administrative assistant, Pauline at 519-823-2323 (ext. 221).